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How do food miles affect the nutritional value of food?

Romona Muschette

Well, when we talk about food miles, we are referring to the distance that food travels from its place of origin to our plates. This distance can have an impact on the nutritional value of the food we eat. Let me explain.

First of all, when food is transported over long distances, it has to be harvested early so that it doesn't spoil before it reaches its destination. This means that the food is picked before it has fully ripened, and as a result, it may not have reached its maximum nutritional value.

Furthermore, during transportation, food is often exposed to conditions that can lead to nutrient loss. For example, if produce is transported in a truck that is not properly refrigerated, it can be subject to heat and humidity which can cause nutrient loss. On the other hand, if the produce is transported in a refrigerated truck, the cold temperature can also cause nutrient loss.

Another factor to consider is the type of food that is being transported. If we're talking about fresh produce, the nutritional value is more likely to be affected by food miles than if we're talking about packaged or processed foods. Fresh produce is generally more perishable and therefore more likely to experience nutrient loss during transportation.

However, it's not all bad news. There are some ways that we can minimize the impact of food miles on the nutritional value of our food. One option is to buy locally grown produce. By doing this, we can ensure that the food we are eating is fresh, since it hasn't had to travel very far. Additionally, buying locally grown food supports local farmers and the local economy.

Another solution is to try and reduce our overall reliance on imported food. This can be challenging, especially when certain foods are not available locally. However, by reducing our consumption of imported foods, we can help to reduce the environmental impact of food transportation as well as support local businesses.

In conclusion, food miles can have an impact on the nutritional value of our food. However, by making conscious choices about the food we eat and where we get it from, we can help to mitigate this impact. As consumers, it's important that we educate ourselves about the food industry and make informed decisions about what we consume.